October Maintenance Checklist

☐ Check for potential leaks and water penetration under and around sinks, toilets, showers and tubs.
☐ If the heat recovery ventilator has been shut off for the summer, clean the filters and the core, and pour water down the condensate drain to test it
☐ Lubricate circulating pump on hot water heating system
☐ Remove the grilles on forced air systems and vacuum inside the ducts
☐ Seal duct leaks and insulate ducts to reduce energy loss
☐ For boilers, check water levels, valves and pipes for leaks.
☐ Vacuum heating registers, vents, ducts, radiators, electric baseboard heaters to remove dust
☐ Check & vacuum smoke, carbon monoxide and security alarms and replace batteries
☐ Clean portable humidifier, if one is used
☐ Schedule a professional carpet cleaning
☐ Check and repair caulk (if needed) around exterior surfaces & foundation
☐ Check and seal/repair basement flooring and walls for dampness or efflorescence.
☐ Clean disposal blades by grinding up ice cubes, with citrus fruit rinds and baking soda
☐ Inspect dishwasher for leaks
☐ Clean/replace kitchen range hood exhaust fan filters
☐ Clean the range-hood filter
☐ Clean your appliances
☐ Remove and clean range burners
☐ Wash and rinse the clothes-dryer lint screen
☐ Inspect, clean, and lubricate at least one major appliance per the manufacturer instructions
☐ Deep-clean laminate surfaces
☐ Clean and brighten tile and grout
☐ Deep-clean all types of flooring
☐ Test GFI receptacles and circuit breakers
☐ Check for caulking cracks and separations around sinks, bathtubs, toilets, countertops, back splashes, faucets, window sills, etc
☐ Clean and freshen your drains
☐ Inspect and clean faucet aerators and shower heads
☐ Pour water down unused drains and flush unused toilets
☐ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, change if 10 years or older
☐ Test the water-heater pressure and temperature-relief valve for proper operation
☐ Clean/replace HVAC air filters
☐ Vacuum air supply and air return registers to remove dust
☐ Check for water penetration around windows, exterior doors and ceiling
☐ Check caulking/seals around showers, bathtubs, sinks, toilet tanks to bowl connection and bases
☐ Check fire extinguishers to ensure they are fully charged
☐ Ensure all stairs and railing do not have loose steps, rails or spindles
☐ Make sure air vents indoors and outside are not blocked
☐ Inspect and seal visible foundation areas, pipes, vents and ducts
☐ Check water-purification and water-softener filters
☐ Check air intakes for insect blockages and debris
☐ Test automatic garage door opener, grease as needed, and and ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is properly adjusted
☐ Check the condition of your deck and apply a waterproofing sealer if necessary
☐ Clean gaps between deck boards above joists
☐ Clean out under decks and porches
☐ Scrape peeling paint, and apply touch up paint to your siding, trim, and fences
☐ Check gutters, downspouts, and roof penetrations for leaks
☐ Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation wall
☐ Locate your winter tools: snow shovel, plows, and snow blowers
☐ Repair and paint fences as necessary